

Savya Agarwal
Class of 2027Dublin, CA
About
Projects
- "Novel Techniques to Optimize and Stabilize Induced Pluripotent Stem Cell Processing Efficiency: Bridging Challenges in Clinical and Research Applications" with mentor Lananh (Jan. 15, 2025)
Project Portfolio
Novel Techniques to Optimize and Stabilize Induced Pluripotent Stem Cell Processing Efficiency: Bridging Challenges in Clinical and Research Applications
Started Aug. 22, 2024
Abstract or project description
Induced Pluripotent Stem Cells (iPSCs) are stem cells that can be generated from adult somatic cells and mimic the pluripotent ability comparable to that of embryonic stem cells (ESCs). iPSCs represent a landmark advance in regenerative medicine, as they eliminate the ethical concerns related to ESCs and can be differentiated into a wide range of different cell types for both clinical and research applications. Currently, iPSCs can be used for disease modeling, drug testing, and tissue regeneration, with applications ranging from personalized medicine to complex diseases. However, researchers are currently facing multiple biological challenges with the manufacturing of iPSC platforms. Namely, the current iPSCs generation process has low efficiency (high number of incompletely reprogrammed cells), genetic instability (high tumorigenesis potential), immunogenicity, and scalability issues. Recent efforts have aimed to optimize the reprogramming Process and enhance pluripotency and genetic stability. Novel reprogramming factors and cultural conditions have been developed that show promise in overcoming these issues. This review paper discusses the current status of iPSC technology, including the characteristics and applications of iPSCs and the challenges facing their use. Further, it discusses recent advances toward enhancing iPSC reprogramming efficiency, stability, and clinical applicability, focusing on how they might improve their potential in personalized regenerative medicine.